Which agency regulates the permanent import of defense articles into the United States?

The agency responsible for regulating the permanent import of defense articles into the United States is the Department of State. This regulation falls under the Arms Export Control Act, which tasks the State Department with overseeing the export and import of defense articles and services, ensuring compliance with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives. The State Department’s Bureau of Political-Military Affairs plays a key role in this regulatory framework, managing licensing for the import and export of defense items.

Understanding the roles of other agencies is also important. The Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives primarily regulates firearms and explosives but does not oversee the importation of defense articles. The Department of Defense focuses on the national defense operations rather than the import regulations of defense articles. Lastly, the Department of Homeland Security is involved in border security and immigration but does not handle the specifics of defense article importation.